U.S. children's dental care falls short at home, national poll reports

As the result of inadequate dental care, children experienced tooth decay, cavities, stained teeth, gum concerns or pain over the last two years, according a University of Michigan study. Photo by cottonbro studio/Pexels
As the result of inadequate dental care, children experienced tooth decay, cavities, stained teeth, gum concerns or pain over the last two years, according a University of Michigan study. Photo by cottonbro studio/Pexels

NEW YORK, Jan. 27 (UPI) -- More than 1 in 3 parents reported that their child has dealt with dental problems linked to a lack of routine oral hygiene, such as brushing teeth twice daily, a new poll shows.

Many youngsters also don't floss, according to the University of Michigan Health C.S. Mott Children's Hospital National Poll on Children's Health.

As a result, parents said children experienced tooth decay, cavities, stained teeth, gum concerns or pain over the last two years.

These problems are more common among those who neglected dental hygiene recommendations or followed them less frequently.

"Oral health is part of my broader research portfolio, so this was a chance to see how well U.S. families are doing," said Sarah Clark, a research scientist in the Department of Pediatrics at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor and the poll's co-director.

Sarah Clark, co-director of the University of Michigan Health C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital National Poll on Children’s Health, said the results showed many deficiencies in children's dental care. Photo courtesy of Michigan Medicine
Sarah Clark, co-director of the University of Michigan Health C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital National Poll on Children’s Health, said the results showed many deficiencies in children's dental care. Photo courtesy of Michigan Medicine

For children, "good, consistent oral hygiene practices, in addition to regular dentist visits," are paramount to keeping the teeth and gums healthy, she added.

The poll, conducted in August, is based on a nationally representative sample of 1,801 responses from parents with at least one child between ages 4 and 17.

Of those surveyed, 64% noted that on all or most days, their child brushes teeth twice per day, and about 60% said the routine lasts at least two minutes.

But only one-third of parents related that their child regularly brushes the tongue, and less than one-fourth floss routinely.

Flossing helps clear difficult-to-access food particles lodged between teeth. The tongue and crevices between teeth retain bacteria that lead to tooth decay, gum disease or bad breath, Clark said.

After consuming sweet foods or beverages, rinsing with water can help prevent sugar from sticking to teeth. Yet, only 15% of those surveyed said their child does this regularly.

Boys followed oral health recommendations less consistently than girls, according to the poll.

Instructing children about the importance of regular oral health is vital to prevent plaque buildup and maintaining healthy gums. This routine wards off inflammation and infection, Clark said.

More than one-third of parents polled also noticed that their child had bad breath, which was more common among those who only followed one or fewer oral hygiene practices all or most days.

Most parents attributed this to "morning breath" or a lack of brushing or flossing, while less than one-fourth mentioned smelly food, mouth breathing or dental problems.

Children should visit a dentist every six months to detect early signs of decay, monitor the growth of teeth and learn about proper oral hygiene, Clark said, citing the American Dental Association.

Good oral health is particularly important for children, so they are able to eat and speak clearly. It's also connected to their self-esteem, she added.

"People who have bad teeth are often looked down on, especially in the United States, where having perfect teeth is part of the culture," Clark said, while adding, "We want all kids to have a nice, healthy smile and feel good about themselves."

A dentist can offer tailored recommendations to a child's unique needs, such as applying sealants or fluoride varnish to protect teeth from decay, she noted.

Dental professionals highlighted the poll's value in shining a light on sound oral health habits at home.

"Tooth decay is the most common chronic childhood disease in the U.S. -- more common than childhood obesity, asthma and diabetes," said Dr. Chelsea Fosse, director of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry Research and Policy Center in Chicago. She was not involved in the study.

"A child with unhealthy teeth is at risk for future oral health problems as an adult," Fosse said.

Most parents are unaware that cavities can make a child more susceptible to infections in the ears, sinuses and brain, she added.

To make the oral health experience more enjoyable, Fosse recommends that parents involve their child in choosing a toothbrush with a favorite character or color. They can make a game out of brushing together and setting a timer or playing a song that lasts two minutes.

"The results of this poll are not surprising," said Dr. Olga Ensz, a clinical assistant professor and director of community-based outreach at the University of Florida College of Dentistry in Gainesville.

"Children without regular access to dental care, including those from low-income backgrounds, are deprived of crucial knowledge that can significantly affect their health and various aspects of their lives for years to come," said Ensz, who has met several children through the university's dental outreach programs who don't own a toothbrush.

"This poll illustrates a problem -- children don't brush with the frequency they should. Daily brushing with a fluoridated toothpaste and flossing are the key to a healthy mouth," said Dr. Keri Discepolo, chair of pediatric dentistry at Boston University Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine.

"These daily routines are essential in preventing tooth decay and periodontal disease," Discepolo added. "Diet and other factors play a role, but brushing and flossing are integral to disease prevention."